Computer / Laptop Slow Performance

  Reduce Windows Search is slowing down the computer. If you find that sometimes your computer is running slow, and you try to find out, and you see Windows Search is  running or indexing, and it's impacting you, I work in computer servicing and I commonly see complaints such as: Windows Search is slowing down my laptop. Why is my laptop so slow? Windows Searcgh high CPU usage in the task manager Note: In Windows services, the service name is "Wsearch" for Windows Search Service. Here, I've documented some steps to manage Windows search , including lighter options through the Windows settings, as well as a more comprehensive approach to ensure that Windows search runs only in the areas that need to be searched. Under setttings -> Privacy & Secuirty -> Search Ensure Classic search is used as Enhance will do the entire PC/Laptop all the areas you never normally search. The "Add an Excluded Folder" is very useful. This is a list which you should see; ...

  Cyber Essentials for Normal People: A Simple Guide for Herefordshire Homes & Small Businesses Cybersecurity advice often feels like it’s written for big companies with big budgets. But the reality is that most cyberattacks in the UK target ordinary people, home offices, and small businesses — the very groups that rarely have dedicated IT staff. That’s where Cyber Essentials comes in. It’s a UK‑government-backed scheme designed to help non-technical users stay safe online without needing to be technical. And the good news is that most of it is simple, affordable, and achievable for anyone in Herefordshire. In this guide, Cyber Essentials is explained in plain English, explaining why it matters locally and how to protect your home or business without stress. Why Cyber Essentials Matters in Herefordshire Herefordshire might feel quiet and rural, but cybercrime doesn’t care about geography. Over the past few years, local customers have faced: Email accoun...

Finding Reliable Computer Repair Services Near You in Herefordshire When your computer breaks down, you need help fast. Whether it's a cracked screen, a virus, or a system that won't start, finding reliable computer repair services near you is crucial. If you're in Herefordshire, choosing a local IT support Herefordshire provider Optimised Computing can save you time, money, and stress Why Choose Local Over National Computer Repair Services? National chains may offer flashy ads, but they often lack the personal touch and speed that local services provide. A **home computer technician Herefordshire** can offer: Faster response times Personalised service Local knowledge and accountability With local support, you're not just another number - you're getting the same person who can work with you and know your needs. Same-Day IT Support and Advice in Herefordshire Need your problem solved today? Look for same-day repair options. I offer same-day laptop repair in Herefo...

 Windows Startup Troubleshooting Made Easy Diagnosing Windows slow startup issues shouldn’t require heavyweight tools or a deep dive into the Windows Performance Toolkit (WPA). After years running an IT support company, one thing became clear: technicians and power users need a simple, portable, free tool that quickly highlights the longest delays in the Windows startup process without wrestling with complex boot‑trace workflows. That’s exactly why I created this lightweight VBS script for visualising Windows startup performance, pulling directly from Diagnostics‑Performance Event 100–110 to reveal which services, drivers, or applications are slowing down boot time. It’s a fast, no‑install way to get actionable insights, making Windows boot time analysis and startup performance troubleshooting accessible to anyone—from home users to busy IT engineers who need answers quickly. The script is here : Boot_Perfomance.vbs Simple run as ms-dos prompt as administrator from the location you...

Next Steps PC or Mac is infected with a virus or malware A malware or virus scare is stressful, but staying calm and following a few simple steps makes a big difference. This guide tells you what to do (and what not to do) right away, how to preserve evidence, and when it’s time to call an IT professional like Optimised Computing for an on‑site visit in Herefordshire. First things first — don’t panic, don’t follow on‑screen instructions from popups If a scary popup demands payment, or a message commands you to “call this number” or “install this tool”, ignore it. These are almost always scams that make the problem worse. Never pay money or give remote‑access codes to strangers. Paying does not guarantee recovery and encourages further attacks. Don’t try dramatic fixes you’ve never used before (random registry cleaners, unfamiliar “anti‑malware” tools from popups). Well‑meaning but incorrect actions can destroy evidence or make recovery harder. Immediate steps to limit damage (do ...

  Is Your Inbox AI-Proof? How Herefordshire Businesses Can Spot and Stop New AI-Powered Phishing Scams For businesses across Herefordshire, from the market town shops to the thriving rural enterprises, keeping pace with technology is key. You've heard about AI making things faster, but there's a dark side: it's also making cybercriminals smarter. Here at Optimised Computing , we specialise in providing reliable, local IT support. We’ve noticed a significant shift in the sophistication of the scams targeting our community. The basic, typo-ridden phishing emails of the past are dead. In 2025, they’ve been replaced by highly convincing, AI-generated attacks that pose a serious threat to your business data and finances. Your inbox is no longer just a target; it's a new frontier in cyber-warfare. The New Threat: Phishing with Perfect Grammar and Personalisation Previously, a badly worded subject line or a glaring spelling mistake was your first and best line of defence again...